FLOOR WARS

If you’re wavering between installing new wood floors or new carpeting in your home, it may seem like a simple decision based on cost, but that is not the case. When choosing flooring for residential homes, it is important to consider design, comfort, price and sustainability. Keep in mind that whichever new flooring you choose will look great when it’s first installed, but even a few weeks of use can require enough sweeping, vacuuming and polishing to make you reconsider your choice.

Here are some things to consider when choosing flooring: wood versus carpet:

Advantages of Carpet:

Cushions slips and falls

Reduces noise throughout the house

Natural insulator – providing warmth during the winter season

Holds onto allergens and keeps them out of the air (vacuuming frequently will remove them)

Should last about 10 years

Faster and cheaper to install

Disadvantages of Carpet:

Collects dust very easily

Needs to be professionally cleaned with hot water extractor (1-2x a year)

First is more easily tracked onto carpets

Shows walking patterns where foot traffic is heaviest

Liquids can seep into the carpet quickly

Might be outdated

Advantages of Hardwood:

Does not collect as much dirt and allergens

Can be repaired if damaged – does not have to be entirely replaced

Simple and quick to clean

Spilled liquid is easy to wipe up

Can be easily professionally repaired

Resale value due to popularity

Warranty on the “finish” typically ranges from 25-30 years

Sustainable, renewable and natural material

Disadvantages of Hardwood:

Can be dented – may have to be completely replace board(s) if something heavy is dropped onto it

Easily scratched due to moving heavy object, furniture and pet nails

Needs to be cleaned more often than carpet because dust/spills/crumbs are more visible

Flooring is a big decision, some homeowners prefer the plushness of carpet beneath their feet, while others believe hardwood adds a touch of elegance to their home and that it remains that “new” look for decades. Although in the end, the decision is up to you.